The Best Basketball Shoes (2019 Reviews)

Basketball requires a lot of quick movement. You run, stop, change direction, jump – all in rapid succession. Your sneakers need to provide adequate foot support, ankle stability, shock absorption, and flexibility to withstand all these types of movements. They also need to have the right kind of tread that will prevent you from slipping on the court. You can’t just wear any type of sneaker without risking serious injury. That’s why your shoes are an integral piece of playing the game.

We looked at dozens of basketball sneakers in order to find the best, highest-quality, most comfortable, and highest performance shoes at any budget, based on factors such as durability, quality of materials, Amazon ratings, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to five of the top-rated basketball shoes that are on the market today.

Top pick

Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Basketball Sneaker

Meet the Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Basketball Sneaker, the best basketball shoes you can buy.

$72.95 USD

We’ve identified the Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Ilation Basketball Sneaker as the best basketball shoe overall. These sneakers feature a “cloudfoam” sockliner and midsole for the ultimate in lightweight cushioning. These features, coupled with the fact that they are a great value for the cost make them an excellent choice for savvy basketball players.

If you’re looking for a basketball sneaker that features high performance at an affordable cost, look no further than the Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Basketball Sneaker. These high top basketball shoes come in eight fashion-forward colors, including white, black, and silver. They’re made of leather and fabric, with a rubber sole. They have an air mesh tongue, collar, and rear quarter for ventilation. They provide the ultimate in lightweight cushioning with a Cloudfoam sockliner and midsole.

Reviewers love the incredible value these shoes provide. They report that the shoes are extremely comfortable and long-lasting for a reasonable price. They also like the lightweight durability these shoes provide, even compared to shoes that are double the cost.

Reviewers also report that these shoes provide great ankle support, which is essential when playing basketball. You’ll never roll your ankle again with these shoes.

Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Basketball Sneaker Key Features:

Come in eight fashion-forward colors

Cloudfoam midsole for the ultimate in lightweight cushioning

Made with leather with a rubber sole

Feature the adidas three-stripe logo on the sides

Comfortable and lightweight

Our Runner Up: Nike Men’s Air Versitile Ii Basketball Shoe

Runner-up

Nike Men’s Air Versitile Ii Basketball Shoe

Fashion-forward sneakers will keep you comfortable during your most vigorous play.

$75.00 USD

Another option is the Nike Men’s Air Versitile Ii Basketball Shoe. These shoes feature Max Air cushioning that protects the heel on impact. They’re made with synthetic fabric with a rubber sole that provides great traction. The mid top rise offers a supportive feel, but aren’t as restrictive as high tops.

Reviewers love that these shoes provide lightweight support. They also have a cool, modern style and look that’s indicative of the Nike brand. They come in eight stylish colors, including white, black, grey and navy. They’re intended for both indoor and outdoor play.

Nike Men’s Air Versitile Ii Basketball Shoe Key Features

Come in eight bright colors

Visible Air-Sole heel

Lightweight impact cushioning

Fly wire cables provide support through the midfoot

Our Budget Pick: Adidas Men’s Mad Bounce Basketball Shoe

Starting at just $23.95, the Adidas Men’s Mad Bounce Basketball Shoe are the best basketball sneakers for budget-friendly players who don’t want to sacrifice quality for price. These shoes come in six different colors. They features a high top rise. Reviewers report that the shoe provides great cushioning and support. You’re far less likely to ever roll an ankle or suffer a related injury with these shoes supporting you.

Reviewers love the value these shoes provide for the price. They also report that the shoes are lightweight and comfortable. While these shoes may not provide all the bells and whistles other brands may boast, they give you the everything you need from a pair of basketball shoes at a reasonable cost.

The Adidas Performance Men’s Crazy Explosive Basketball Shoe is the best high top basketball shoe on there.

$59.72 USD

If you’re looking for a knockout high top basketball shoe, look no further than the Adidas Performance Men’s Crazy Explosive Basketball Shoe. These high top shoes feature “energy-returning boost” cushioning that proposes: “The more energy you give, the more you get.” Reviewers love that this boost makes jumping more forgiving on the knees. They also report that it provides excellent support for your ankles and heels.

These shoes come in 11 fashion-forward colors that match almost any team jersey. The lacing system has been updated to reduce pressure on laces and eliminate breakage. The shoe is made with xeno upper and features tinted TPU wrap over the midsole.

Reviewers report that the shoe fits so well, it feels like you’re not wearing anything at all. They’re lightweight and provide excellent bounce that’s easy on the knees.

If you prefer a low top basketball shoe, turn to the Adidas Men’s D Lillard 3 Basketball Shoe. Not all basketball players like the heavy feel a high top shoe can provide. Instead, they like the flexibility of a low top. The Adidas men’s D Lillard 3 measures approximately 3.69 inches from the arch, providing the perfect low top option. This style comes in 29 amazing colors, including blue, red, purple, navy and more. It features a seamless fit and provides natural, flexible support. It also features four separate zones for lacing so you can add more stability or motion, depending on your preference.

Reviewers love that the shoe fits like a glove, feels light on the feet, and is extremely responsive. They also like how the lacing system allows them to dial in the exact fit they’re looking for. Reviewers remark that the shoe provides the best traction of any shoe they’ve tried. They also report that these shoes work just as great on indoor court as outdoors.

Adidas Men’s D Lillard 3 Basketball Shoe Key Features:

Comes in 29 colors to match every style and preference

Shaft measures approximately 3.69″ from arch

Techfit engineered for fir and flexible support

Padded collar for extra comfort

Four lacing zones for added stability and motion

Who Should Buy Basketball Sneakers

If you play basketball, you need a pair of basketball sneakers to avoid injury. Basketball requires a lot of quick, intense movement, like running, stopping on a dime, shifting from side to side, and jumping. No other type of shoe is designed to support your feet and ankles during these kinds of movements like a basketball shoe. Running shoes are designed to be lightweight and support the foot during long distances. Choosing a running shoe to play basketball could lead to ankle injuries due to a lack of traction when stopping quickly and changing directions.

If you’re looking for a shoe for working out or running, you should, likewise, avoid purchasing a basketball sneaker. A heavy basketball shoe may cause fatigue and make it harder for you to run or perform your work out. It’s important to choose a shoe for the correct type of activity you plan to partake in. If you’re unsure, consult with your doctor or a sports medicine expert who can point you in the right direction.

Top pick

Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Basketball Sneaker

Meet the Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Basketball Sneaker, the best basketball shoes you can buy.

$72.95 USD

Important Features to Consider

Basketball sneakers should be made with performance and comfort in mind. Here’s what to consider when selecting basketball shoes:

Low, mid or high top? High top basketball sneakers feature a high upper that wraps around your ankle to provide support and stability. The downside of this extra coverage is that it often comes with extra weight that some players dislike. A mid top basketball sneaker provides a happy medium in terms of ankle support. The upper material provides some coverage, but also allow for increased flexibility. Low tops are great for speed and agility, but offer little in terms of ankle support.

Midsole support. The midsole provides the cushion, usually comprised of EVA foam, polyurethane or a proprietary cushioning technology. Some shoes provide extra cushioning at certain pressure points that get stressed during a basketball game. Some also feature stiffer materials that protect against pronation (inward rolling).

Traction. Basketball shoes feature an outer sole made of a rubber or synthetic material that provides traction on the court. Look for an outer sole that has a herringbone or hexagonal pattern. These are designed to prevent you from sliding on the court.

Indoor or outdoor play? Most basketball shoes are designed to accommodate basketball play on an indoor court. If you plan on playing outdoors, look for a thicker, more durable outsole. Look for a shoe with deep, thick tread as asphalt is much less forgiving than an indoor hardwood court.

Color and style. Style and aesthetics is also important. You’ll want shoes that are comfortable and lightweight, but look nice as well too. You may want to match your shoes with your team’s basketball jersey or just pick your favorite color so you stand out on the court. You can also show your appreciation for your favorite players by choosing a shoe that they have personally designed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the use of basketball shoes?

Basketball shoes are specifically designed for playing basketball. They’re made to withstand and absorb the shock of intense and rapid movement. They provide ankle support, lightweight cushioning, and traction to help you succeed at the game of basketball and reduce injury.

What is the difference between running and basketball shoes?

Running shoes are lightweight and designed to endure long distances. They cushion your feet from the repetitive motion of running. Basketball sneakers are more bulky and heavier to provide more support to the ankle and cushioning for the foot during a basketball game. Running long distances in basketball shoes can cause fatigue and soreness, while playing basketball in running shoes could lead to a turned ankle due to lack of ankle support.

Are basketball shoes good for working out?

Basketball shoes are best for playing basketball. Other forms of working out, like weight lifting, running, hiking, or bike riding all require different types of shoes. Using the wrong type of shoes for an injury can lead to soreness and injury, so it’s best to choose the best type of shoe intended for each activity.

Is it good to run in basketball shoes?

Of course, you will be running up and down the court in your basketball shoes. However, you shouldn’t make a habit to run long distances in basketball shoes. Basketball shoes are heavier and bulkier than typical minimalist running shoes that are designed to be as lightweight as possible. Running in basketball shoes will slow down your stride, impact your form, and can even cause fatigue.

Other Basketball Sneakers We Reviewed

Top pick

Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Basketball Sneaker

Meet the Adidas Performance Men’s Cloudfoam Basketball Sneaker, the best basketball shoes you can buy.

$72.95 USD

We looked at 20 other basketball shoes. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best basketball shoe list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.

Low Top Basketball Shoes

The NIKE Men’s Air Versitile Nubuck features integrated webbing for lightweight containment with an Air-Sole that cushions the heel. The durable outsole is designed to play on a variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces.

With a durable herringbone pattern outsole and zoned support, the Nike Kyrie 3 provide the ultimate in comfort and style. It also features the Nike Zoom unit, thin, lightweight, and durable cushioning.

This mid-top basketball shoe features a bunch of technologic features, including a natural biochemical fit within the toe box that allows you to spread your toes, Kinetic Lift Technology in the midsole, and explosion TFOAM foam in the forefoot.

With a breathable and lightweight upper and a full-length bootie construction, the Under Armour Team Drive 4 provide a blend of function and comfort. It also features an external heel counter for improved stability.

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Rebecca Desfosse is a frequent contributor at Sports Life Today. She’s a freelance writer who has been writing about sports and lifestyle topics since 2011. She has contributed to publications such as Family Education, What to Expect, Care.com, and more. Rebecca and her husband are raising two amazing boys at the Jersey Shore. She’s passionate about sharing creative and unique ways parents can enrich the lives of their children and enjoy all the joys of parenting.

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